SunSmart iPhone application launched

Thursday 25 November, 2010

The first ever SunSmart iPhone(tm) application was launched today making it easier than ever for Australians to be SunSmart this summer.

SunSmart Manager, Sue Heward said "We have developed the app to provide people right across Australia with free, easy-to-access information about ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels, making it easier than ever for everyone to build sun protection into their daily routines. Whilst lots of people love the outdoors the UV levels are likely to reach extreme levels over the next few months, so people need to know when to use sun protection."

Australian Cricket's Twenty-20 captain and Test vice captain, Michael Clarke, has had three skin cancers removed from his face and said he looked forward to using the new SunSmart app.

"It's a great way to know when I need to protect myself. Within a few seconds, I can find out the weather, temperature, UV level and most importantly the times of the day when I need to use sun protection. So, before I head out for training, I can make sure I am prepared for the day ahead," he said.

The free SunSmart app includes features such as:

Forecasted UV level from the Bureau of Meteorology for your current location anywhere in Australia

Adjustable reminder function alerting the user to their daily sun protection needs and when it's safe to get some sun for vitamin D

Information for users about UV exposure risks and protective measures. This takes the guesswork out when protecting yourself and your family from dangerous UV radiation, whether at home or on holidays

Overexposure to UV is the main cause of skin and eye damage and skin cancer. On a January day without sun protection it can take as little as 11 minutes for the signs of sunburn to appear. Even when it's overcast, often the UV level is still extreme which can result in accidental sunburn, tanning, skin and eye damage and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is Australia's most prevalent cancer but, ironically, it is also one of the most preventable. By checking the UV level each day before heading out and noting the times of the day that sun protection is required, people can take the necessary steps to make sure they play safe in the sun this summer.

The SunSmart app is now available to download for free from the iTunes App Store.

Cancer Council Victoria would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We would also like to pay respect to the elders past and present and extend that respect to all other Aboriginal people.